If permanent tooth loss is something you are dealing with, you likely find it difficult to eat, talk, smile, and do so many other things without the functionality of your full mouth. Luckily, dental implants are an option if you are searching for a strong, natural-looking replacement for lost teeth that feel just like your natural teeth. Whether you are missing one tooth or more, dental implants will fulfill that missing tooth or teeth, providing you with a safe and long-term option.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small metal (usually titanium) screws that are very strong, which are added to your jawbone by your dentist. They act like roots and are used to secure your new teeth. Once they can heal and settle into the bone, there is a crown (the fake tooth) added above them. This allows the placement of lost teeth and restores the full smile of the mouth.
Dental implants assist you in chewing better, speaking normally, and feeling good about yourself again. They are generally recommended by a professional when a person loses one tooth, many teeth, or you may even placing full-mouth dental implants.
Dental Implant Procedure Step by Step
Your dental implant process, step by step:
Below are as simple of steps as you should expect when getting a dental implant
- Dental checkup: Our dentist will evaluate your mouth, including X-rays, and ask you some questions about your medical history. It is important that your gums and bone are healthy enough to allow for dental implant placement.
- Treatment plan: The dentist in Langley will outline options for you. This will include the discussion about how many implants you may need, such as one implant for one missing tooth or any number of implants for full mouth dental implants.
- The placement of the implant: At this visit, the dentist will place or put the implant into the bone tissue carefully. This area is treated with local anesthesia, so you are not in pain.
- Healing time (osseointegration): The implant and bone must become one. Healing time from process can take a couple of months. This helps support the implant for a lasting attachment.
- The Placement of the abutment: Following the time frame to heal, your dentist will place your abutment, or a small connector, which holds the crown.
- The placement of the crown: Lastly, the dentist will place the crown, which is custom-made for you. Your implant now looks and feels just like a real tooth.
Same-Day Dental Implants
Same-day dental implants Langley are for people who want their new teeth quickly. Instead of waiting months for healing, the implant and crown are placed on the same day.
This is not for everyone. You must have strong bones and healthy gums. The dentist will let you know if same-day dental implants in Langley are a good fit for you.
Full Mouth Dental Implants
If you have lost many or all of your teeth, full mouth dental implants Langley may be the right option for you. Full mouth dental implants use multiple implants to preserve and support a complete set of teeth replacement solutions. Instead of placing an implant per tooth, your dentist will usually place 4 to 8 implants per jaw, then use the implants as support for a denture or a bridge. This means your new teeth will have a strong hold and look natural.
There are significant benefits of full mouth dental implants, including:
- Better chewing
- More comfort than regular dentures
- No slipping while talking or eating
Single Tooth Implant
If you are just missing one tooth, a single tooth implant Langley can fit in the gap without affecting the health of the other teeth in the mouth. The implant is placed in the bone of your jaw, and then a crown is attached on top of the implant. A single tooth implant will look, feel and function like a natural tooth.
It is a good choice if:
- You are missing one tooth
- Your other teeth are healthy
- You have good bone strength
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures Langley are not the same as regular dentures. They are not just resting on your gums. They are attached to the implants in your jaw.
These types of dentures:
- Don’t slip or move around
- Let you eat more food
- Are more comfortable
You have the option of fixed (non-removable) or removable implant-supported dentures. Your dentist will help you choose the right option best suited for your needs and budget.
Who Can Get Dental Implants?
Most adults who are healthy can get dental implants. But the dentist will check if:
- Your gums are healthy
- You have enough bone in your jaw
- You don’t smoke a lot
- You don’t have major health problems like uncontrolled diabetes
Children usually can’t get implants because their jaws are still growing.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants usually last 20 or more years if you take care of them. Some may even last a lifetime.
Here are some recommendations for keeping your implants healthy:
- Brush and floss daily
- Visit your dentist near you for regular audits
- Do not smoke or chew on things that are hard
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Yes, dental implants are safe and employed universally by dentists. The overall success rate is very high (95% or higher).
But, as with anything, there are small risks. They include:
- Swelling or pain post surgery
- Infection
- Implant not bonding properly with the bone
- Your dentist will always talk you through and help you avoid any complications.
Bring Back Your Confident Smile with Dental Implants!
If you’re missing one or more teeth, dental implants can help. At Platinum Dental Care, we use safe and strong materials to replace your missing teeth and thus restore your smile. Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, and are helpful with chewing and speech. Our dental team can help walk you through each step of the process.
Give us a call today to schedule your consultation. Let’s bring your smile back with dental implants!
